Preston’s Fish Market Canopy Set for Facelift

The first stage in the restoration of Preston’s historic Fish Market is now underway, with specialist investigation into the 90 year old structure.

The Fish Market canopy is a grade II listed building and in need of repairs.  However, before full refurbishment work can begin, specialist metal workers must fully examine the state of the metal columns that hold up the canopy.

The specialist investigative works are required to find out the full extent of repairs that might be needed to the Fish Market.

Welcoming the start of the works at Preston’s Market’s Councillor Peter Rankin, Leader of Preston City Council said:

“This is the very start of our multi-million pound investment into Preston’s Markets Quarter. Firstly, we will fully restore the Fish Market canopy. It is a wonderful structure dating from mid 1920s and it is very much a Preston landmark. We have to treat the Fish Market with care. It is a listed building and we have to fully explore the condition of the metal working. This work is expected to last several weeks before we gear up to start on the restoration proper in the autumn

“There will be some minimal disruption to trading under the Fish Market canopy whilst the works are underway but there is enough space in the markets area, to accommodate all outdoor and car boot traders.

“The main thing is that we are making progress. We’ve opened a dialogue with traders and are keen to work in partnership with all traders to deliver a brighter future for the markets. Indeed, following on from this consultation it is clear that we need to invest more money into the market to make sure we “get it right” for traders and also for Preston which prides its self on a unique, thriving and vibrant market. This commitment to investing more into the markets does however present us with different challenges. For example, we now have to look again at the procurement of professional services supporting the project, such as architects, but it’s a nice challenge to have.

“So lots to be positive about as we look forward to making progress together as a city.”